Start small and work your way up!
Jun 12 '00 (Updated Jun 15 '00)
If your reading this epinion, you probably are looking into buying your first motorcycle. Well here are a few tips from someone who has done this in the last few years.
First, buy used for your first bike. You won't be keeping it forever, so don't break the bank. The reason I say you won't keep it, is that you shouldn't buy a bike that is too much for you to handle. There are lots of old bikes in great shape that will work for new riders. Stick with a small CC engine 400 to 600 is pretty good for starters. A 500 to 600 for the bigger guys. Make sure you get a bike that is mechanically sound, unless you are mechanical or know someone who is. Old bikes run great, last for years, but will usually have a few minor problems from year to year. When someone sells a used bike it's not always in perfect shape, so make sure you are ready to put some elbow grease into it.
Look around for bikes on the side of main roads, read classifieds and check all the bike shops. Most bike shops have a room in the back with plenty of used bikes to choose from. The fall and winter is the best time to find a good deal on a used bike price wise.
Make sure you are comfortable in the seat and you like the way it rides. Not all bikes feel the same, especially after long rides. You want to make sure the bike is not too heavy for you to handle. As a said before a new rider needs to learn how to ride before he can become a seasoned rider.
So you found the bike that feels good, looks good, runs great and your ready to take it home. Well don't forget two important things, get (and wear a helmet) and get insurance. Just like your bike, your helmet and your insurance need to be tailored for you. Get a helmet that looks good and feels good. You don't want to learn how to ride without the protection of a helmet. As far as insurance goes, shop around!!! Some auto insurance companies don't want to insure motorcycles, so they charge high rates. If you won't be riding in the winter, you can usually find 9 month insurance for a smaller price.
One other tip for you new riders, try some lessons or get a friend to teach you the ropes. Don't try it on your own. Motorcycling can be fun, but it can be dangerous. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation gives lessons for $50 and your insurance will usually be cheaper if you have taken their class.
After you get the hang of riding your bike, then you can think about replacing that one with a newer, bigger bike that will you will want to keep longer. You won't be as concerned if you bang up your first bike if you get an older one. Then you will know if you really like it without costing you an arm and a leg (no pun intended).
One last item, some states do require a motorcycle endorsement on your drivers license. Make sure you get yours if it is required, Indiana requires it and I've had mine since I was 18.
Ride on,
David
Thanks to Yachipep for giving me a few pointers on this epinion.
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Epinions.com ID:
dkreskai
|
|
Member: David Kreskai
Reviews written: 70
Trusted by: 7 members
|
|
|
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.